The Montgomery County School Board selected Mark Miear, Ed.D., as the new superintendent for Montgomery County Public Schools.

Miear is currently the assistant superintendent for Winchester Public Schools in Winchester, Virginia. Previously, he has served as director of secondary education, a high school principal, a high school associate principal, an assistant director of personnel and a history teacher. Mier also served in the United States Marine Corps. Miear earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Liberty University, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Lynchburg College and a doctor of education in educational leadership from the University of Virginia.

“We believe that Dr. Miear will successfully lead our school division through the next steps for success,” said Joey Lyons, school board chair. “His energy and enthusiasm are evident.”

Miear was one of three finalists selected by the Board in October. All three finalists spent a day in the district touring schools and participating in a community forum.

“The Board felt that our pool of applicants was exceptional and that all three finalists were excellent candidates. We believe that Dr. Miear will bring the sense of transparency and focus on relationships that the Board was looking for in the district’s next leader,” said Lyons.

“MCPS has a reputation of excellence that I plan to continue,” said Miear. “The community cares about and supports education and this district is a great fit for me, my family and my career.”

Miear will begin his tenure as MCPS superintendent on January 4, 2016. “I am excited to get to work,” said Miear. “I know that, together, we are going to do a great job continuing the school division’s forward progress.”